Pustules are yellowish topped, tiny inflamed elevations of the skin containing pus. The pus is formed by white blood cells, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Pustules are usually found in areas where hair is located. However, sometimes hairless body parts are affected by pustules as well.
Maculae are small red spots remaining on the skin as a result of an acne lesion. These flat, red areas on the skin make the skin look inflamed, especially if gathered in a group.
Nodules, being the most distressing lesions brought about by acne, cause a serious structural change in an affected body part. Nodules reach the deeper layers of the skin, causing tissue destruction. It is really painful to get rid of them, and unpleasant scars are usually left behind. Only isotretinonin is used for treating this serious form of acne.
Cysts have the shape of capsules filled with liquid or semi-liquid pus. Cysts appear to be bigger than pustules and are often infected. Cysts penetrate deep into the skin and, after disappearing, may leave scars. The worst type of acne, nodulocystic acne, is very difficult to treat. Only aggressive treatment with isotretinoin, a powerful drug obtained from Vitamin A, can help people get rid of this serious form of acne. Unfortunately, herbal acne products cannot help here.
Dr. Jerry K is the founder and CEO of YourWebDoc.com, part of a team of more than 30 experts. Dr. Jerry K is not a medical doctor but holds a degree of Doctor of Psychology; he specializes in family medicine and sexual health products. During the last ten years Dr. Jerry K has authored a lot of health blogs and a number of books on nutrition and sexual health.